Synergy: Garbage

GARBAGE is material discarded by humans because it’s no longer of use. Sometimes called trash, rubbish, or waste, these objects include organic matter such as food scraps, dry goods like boxes and bottles, and consumer products made of plastic, wood, metal, glass or cloth. Garbology is the study of modern trash.

Read the recently published narrative nonfiction for middle grades, then learn more at the websites:

TOTAL GARBAGE: A MESSY DIVE INTO TRASH, WASTE, AND OUR WORLD written by Rebecca Donnelly and illustrated by John Hendrix traces the history of the trash and waste generated by humans. In addition, readers learn about the different types of garbage, how it’s managed, and what individuals can do to reduce their impact on the Earth. ARC courtesy of Henry Holt and Co., an imprint of Macmillan.

HISTORY OF GARBAGE from SWA provides a brief timeline of trash.

To read the article, go to https://swa.org/DocumentCenter/View/277/History-of-Garbage-PDF.

GARBOLOGY from BBC is an article exploring patterns in people’s waste.

To read the article, go to https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220429-garbology-how-to-spot-patterns-in-peoples-waste.

GARBOLOGY from UW video shares the work of garbologists at the University of Washington.

To view the video, go to https://youtu.be/1C2aQuK_LD4.

Synergy: Scopes Monkey Trial

The SCOPES MONKEY TRIAL challenged the Butler Act prohibiting the teaching of human evolution in schools. Science teacher John Scopes (1900-1970) agreed to become the defendant in the test case pitting science against religion. He was found guilty and the act remained in place until 1967.

Read the recently published nonfiction book for middle grades, then learn more at the websites:

THE MONKEY TRIAL: JOHN SCOPES AND THE BATTLE OVER TEACHING EVOLUTION by Anita Sanchez is a well-researched, nonfiction book for middle grades examining what became known as the Scopes Monkey Trial. Weaving primary sources with engaging narrative, Sanchez focuses on the teacher who stood up for the rights of students to learn. The book stresses that the conflict between science and religion continues today. ARC courtesy of Clarion Books, an imprint of HarperCollins.

JOHN SCOPES is a short article from PBS about the teacher and trial.

To read the article, go to https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/monkeytrial-john-scopes/.

THE SCOPES MONKEY TRIAL from In Search of History weaves photos and historical footage into a video about the trial.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/bdD9vi4koUw.

The SCOPE “MONKEY” TRIAL from the State bar of Georgia shares an animated video about the famous trial.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/YdqnwRwbb4Q.

Synergy: California Gold Rush

The California Gold Rush (1848-1855) began when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill. The news of gold brought more than 300,000 people seeking their fortune. While some “forty-niners” found gold, others were more successful in selling supplies and goods to miners.

Read the recently published children's book, then learn more at the website:

GOLD RUSH GIRL by Avi tells the story of a young girl’s adventures on the high seas and the gold fields of 1848 California. Set during the Gold Rush, this middle grade novel successfully weaves in elements of historical events in San Francisco during this period.

THE GOLD RUSH ERA, 1848-1865 from Calisphere: University of California contains six digital exhibitions related to the time period. Topics include murder and mayhem, disasters, everyday life and people, environmental impact, the growth of cities, and diversity in the changing state.

To visit the digital collection, go to https://bit.ly/2R0UeiF.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: First Names

From Malala to Amelia, many famous individuals are known by their first name. Over the past 100 years, James and Mary are the most popular names. However during the past decade, Noah and Emma have been number one. Often called a “given name”, a first name identifies an individual person while a surname generally identifies a family.

Read the recently published children's biography series, then learn more at the website:

The FIRST NAMES biography series are highly illustrated nonfiction books featuring well known people from the past and present. Middle grade readers already know many of these well-known people by their first names. These works of narrative nonfiction feature short chapters that highlight key events and ideas in the person’s life. Most books end with a glossary and timeline. Their use of mini-comics and humor are likely to engage reluctant readers. The series kicks off with Harry Houdini and Amelia Earhart, followed by Malala Yousafazai, Ada Lovelace, and Ferdinand Magellan.

GET READY FOR BABY from the Social Security Administration features the top baby names of each year along with baby names by decade, state, and territories. It also explore changes in popularity of names over time. Use this website to kickstart an exploration of famous people and their names.

To learn more, go to https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Synergy: Endangered Insects

When people think of endangered species, insects are often overlooked. From bees and butterflies to beetles, many species of insects are becoming endangered or extinct. The disappearance of species can have a serious impact on ecosystems.

Read the recently published middle grade book on this topic, then learn more at the website:

BUGS IN DANGER by Mark Kurlansky is a work of nonfiction that examines vanishing bees, butterflies, and beetles. This fascinating middle grade book focuses on the decline of species in recent years. The book concludes with a bibliography and index.

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service lists dozens of insect species that are endangered. Readers can read about specific beetles, butterflies, damselflies, dragonflies, flies, moths, skippers, stoneflies, and bees.

Visit the Environmental Conservation Online System at https://bit.ly/3c7UWnm.

ARC courtesy of Bloomsbury Children’s Books.

Book: Captain Superlative

CAPTAIN SUPERLATIVE by J.S. Puller tells the story of a seventh grader who becomes a superhero’s sidekick.

Janey’s goal is to avoid conflict and fly under the radar. However when Captain Superlative arrives bearing acts of kindness, Janey decides to team up with this superhero and take action. This fast-paced and endearing middle school drama explores social themes such as bullying and childhood illness. Elements of humor and authentic characters add to the appeal of the story.

Librarians will find youth drawn to this story of courage and kindness. Feature it along with other positive school stories with a message.

Published by Disney Book Group on May 8, 2018. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Aru Shah and the End of Time

ARU SHAH AND THE END OF TIME is the first adventure fantasy in the Pandava quartet.

Aru Shah lives the Museum of Ancient Art and Culture where her mother works as an archeaologist. When Aru accidentally awakens an ancient demon known as the Sleeper, Aru must save her family and friends. Can she find the five legendary Pandava brothers and journey through the Kingdom of Death in time?

Librarians will find the connections to Hindu mythology appealing to middle grade children who enjoy other books featuring mythology such as the Olympians and Magnus Chase books. The female protagonist, fast-paced storyline, and Indian cultural themes will appeal to a broad audience.

Published on March 27, 2018 by Disney-Hyperion. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Wild Robot Escapes

THE WILD ROBOT ESCAPES by Peter Brown is a sequel continuing the story of a robot who calls an island her home.

Roz the robot is taken to a farm where she helps a family run a dairy. After telling the farm animals about her experiences on the island, they agree to help her find a way home to her son Brightbill and her wild creature friends. Much of the story involves Roz’s journey that ultimately leads to meeting her designer.

Librarians will find this middle grade novel a popular follow-up to the original. The Wild Robot books provide a nice bridge between beginning chapter book and longer novels for young readers. Use the book to jumpstart discussions about perseverance and what it means to be human. Feature the title in a display exploring robot characters.

Published by March 13, 2018 by Little, Brown, an imprint of Hachette. ARC courtesy of the publishers.

Book Review: Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the World

IVY ABERDEEN’S LETTER TO THE WORLD by Ashley Herring Blake is a powerful work of contemporary realistic fiction for the middle grades.

When twelve-year-old Ivy’s house is destroyed by a tornado, her notebook is lost. As drawings from her notebook begin to reappear, she wonders whether she’s strong enough to reveal her secret crush. Blake’s portrayal of the preteen experience is authentic and readers are likely to sympathize with her dilemma and choices.

Librarians will find this book to be a strong addition to the collection. The contemporary setting and realistic LGBT theme will be a draw of middle grade readers. This tender story is a good choice for all children, but particularly those dealing with the challenges of first love.

Published on March 6, 2018 by Little, Brown for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: 2018 Young Explorer's Adventure Guide

THE 2018 YOUNG EXPLORER’S ADVENTURE GUIDE edited by Sean and Corie Weaver is the fourth book in this annual anthology.

Containing 24 science fiction stories for middle grade readers, this short story collection includes a wide range of topics from robots to space travel. Many of the stories include diverse characters and connections to contemporary themes.

Librarians will find this anthology to be useful in introducing readers to new authors including both established writers along with newer authors. Of particular note are the many stories featuring female and diverse characters.

Published by Dreaming Robot Press on December 5, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Exact Location of Home

THE EXACT LOCATION OF HOME by Kate Messner is a work of realistic fiction exploring contemporary issues including friendship, family, and homelessness.

Kirby, also known as Zig, is an electronics wiz who begins geocaching with his friends when he gets a GPS. While trying to hide his homelessness from friends and search for his missing father, he must also deal with the daily life of a middle grade life.

Librarians will find that this realistic story explores a plethora of timely social issues including homelessness, single parent families, environmental themes, and school friendships. Use the book as part of a reading group exploring issues of empathy and compassion. The electronics and environmental focus may increase interest among readers who enjoy STEM topics.

Published by Bloomsbury on September 12, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Whydah

THE WHYDAH: A PIRATE SHIP FEARED, WRECKED, and FOUND by Martin W. Sandler pieces together the true story of a pirate ship discovered by marine archaeologists in the 1980s.

During the age of piracy, now famous pirates like Blackbeard and Black Sam Bellamy sailed the Atlantic in search of treasure. In 1717, a pirate ship called the Whydah wrecked off Cape Cod only to be found in 1984 by marine archaeologists. Sandler tells the exciting story of what researchers have learned from this amazing pirate ship. Readers learn about how this slave ship was transformed into a ship used by pirates almost 300 years ago. The author incorporates legends and survivor stories to add to the mystery surrounding the ship. Primary source materials are woven into the story along with short descriptions that provide historical insights.

Librarians will find the combination of pirates, shipwrecks, and history to be appealing to both middle grade and older students. Connect this book with other activities occurring during the age of piracy. This book would be useful for reluctant readers seeking an engaging research topic.

Published by Candlewick on March 14, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Wolf Keepers

WOLF KEEPERS by Elise Broach is an absorbing mystery adventure.

Written for middle grade readers, young Lizzie spend her time with the animals at a zoo. Her life changes when she encounters a runaway living at the zoo. Together she and her new friend investigate a mystery involving wolves that takes them on an adventure to Yosemite National Park.

Librarians will find this book appeals to a broad audience including those who enjoy mystery, adventures, and animals. The historical connections with John Muir provide the opportunity to connect to the origins of national parks. Animal lovers are sure to be attracted to both the setting and the engaging story.

Published by Henry Holt and Company on October 11, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Secret Keepers

THE SECRET KEEPERS by Trenton Lee Stewart is a fast-paced mystery adventure.

When Reuben finds a magical, antique watch with the power of invisibility, he’s propelled into a life-changing adventure filled with quirky characters, dangerous secrets, and a time-sensitive mystery.

Librarians will find a ready-made audience in fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society. Although the book’s length may be a barrier for some students, others will enjoy the depth of the plot. Children who like puzzles, surprises, and mysteries will enjoy the complexity of the story.

Published by Little, Brown Book on Hachette Books on September 27, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Mighty Odd

THE MIGHTY ODD by Amy Ignatow is the first fantasy in the new The Odd Series for middle grades.

After a mysterious bus accident, four children, a teen, and two adults develop strange supernatural powers. This diverse group must work together to solve the mystery of their special abilities.

Librarians will find a following with middle grade students who enjoy humorous stories. The strong female characters and diverse cast adds to the appeal.

This realistic school story has just enough fantasy elements to appeal to science fiction lovers without too much to lose mainstream readers. The author does an exceptional job addressing issues such as bullying and school politics.

Published by Harry N. Abrams on September 13, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Girl Who Drank the Moon

THE GIRL WHO DRANK THE MOON by Kelly Barnhill is an engaging coming-of-age fantasy for middle grade readers.

Xan the witch rescues a baby and accidentally fills her with magic. As the child approaches thirteen, her magic emerges. At the same time, a series of events will change the forest and nearly village forever.

Librarians will find this fairy tale popular with fantasy fans. From a monster and dragon to a volcano and magic, this book has a wide range of appealing characters and settings. The many fairy tales elements make this an excellent book for discussing this type of strong telling.

To learn more about the author, go to https://kellybarnhill.wordpress.com/.

Published by Algonquin on August 9, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Let Your Voice Be Heard

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD by Anita Silvey explores the life of folk musician Pete Seeger.

From young folk-singer to Grammy winner, this well-researched work of nonfiction traces the career of this singer, songwriter, and banjo player. The book is most effective when discussing his social and environmental activism.

Librarians will find a middle grade audience for this biography among children who enjoy music and activism. Connect this work of nonfiction with the Smithsonian Folkways website to see and hear Seeger’s works. Go to http://www.folkways.si.edu/peteseeger.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.anitasilvey.com/. A teachers guide is available.

Published by Clarion Books, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Be Light Like a Bird

BE LIGHT LIKE A BIRD by Monika Schroder tells the authentic story of a twelve-year-old girl dealing with the death of her father.

When her dad dies, Wren and her mother must move to Michigan and start a new life. Along the way, Wren deals with a wide range of issues from bullying and peer pressure to environmental issues and themes of lies, forgiveness, and hope.

This poignant story realistically describes Wrens’ struggles with the death of her father. The author skillfully weaves age-appropriate experiences and actions into the storyline.

Librarians will find middle-grade, realistic fiction readers drawn to the wide range of topics and themes. From birding and anthropology to bullying, encourage youth to select an issue of interest and learn more about it.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.monikaschroeder.com/.

Published by Stone Arch, and imprint of Capstone on August 1, 2016. Courtesy of the author.

Book Review: Towers Falling

TOWERS FALLING by Jewell Parker Rhodes tells the powerful story of a young girl learning about the history of 9/11.

Set in New York City, Deja is a homeless child enrolled in a new school. Along with her new friends Ben and Sabeen, the fifth-grader learns about the history of the 9/11 attacks as part of the school’s curriculum. As she dives into an exploration of this historical event, Deja soon discovers a personal connection she never imagined.

This thought-provoking story explores a wide range of important historical and socio-political connections to this event that occurred before the birth of today’s elementary children. Rhodes skillfully teaches children about the historical event within a story about friendship and family.

Librarians will find this to be an important addition to their library collection. Consider purchasing a class set and working with teachers to weave the novel into the curriculum.

To learn more about the author, go to http://jewellparkerrhodes.com/.

Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette Books on July 12, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Presenting Buffalo Bill

PRESENTING BUFFALO BILL by Candace Fleming is an engaging biography exploring the myth and reality behind Buffalo Bill Cody’s life.

Fleming takes a fresh look at this “larger than life” historical figure by taking readers step-by-step through Buffalo Bill’s remarkable adventures. Through the use of primary source documents, the author carefully explains the truth behind the many lies connected with the Wild West legend providing varied perspectives along the way. Sensitive cultural issues are addressed, along with the dark side of his business ventures.

Fleming weaves photographs and other primary source documents throughout the text bringing the time period to life for young readers. Back matter includes a bibliography, source notes, and an index.

Librarians will find this middle-grade biography to be popular among children doing “people reports” as well as those who enjoy reading about famous historical figures. It would also be a good choice for children who aren’t interested in Presidents or other historical figures but need an interesting history topic.

Learn more about the author at http://www.candacefleming.com/.

Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on September 20, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.